Sukagawa City cancels Shakado River Fireworks Festival due to rising costs

The Shakado River Fireworks Festival in Sukagawa City, Fukushima Prefecture, has been canceled due to soaring costs and the need to restructure its management system. Mayor Masaaki Odera stated that the city reached a limit regarding financial resources and decided to pause the event to re-evaluate its operations.

Rising expenses for security and materials were significant factors. While the 2025 project cost approximately 76 million yen, the 2026 event was projected to exceed 100 million yen, including a 30 million yen increase. Additionally, the city aims to address the burden placed on municipal staff who previously managed logistics, ticket sales, and sponsorship collection.

The cancellation has impacted the local economy. Local businesses, such as the century-old Shoji Confectionery, reported significant concerns regarding lost revenue, as the festival typically serves as a major annual sales driver. The city is currently forming a team of young local residents to explore new methods for securing sponsorships and organizing future events.